Zoo improvements benefit Pine Belt

The Hattiesburg Zoo sure does look good for its age. The zoo turns 63 years old this year with a celebration Saturday and new features including a flamingo pavilion, Zebu cattle exhibit and hands-on drum station.

Hattiesburg Zoo and Kamper Park have long been popular destinations for area families and visitors of all ages, but over the past decade or so, there has been a major effort to upgrade the zoo with new landscaping and attractions, and to make the habitats more comfortable and home-like for the exotic animals, whether it's the zebras or the prairie dogs.

The Hattiesburg Convention Commission took over the responsibility for the zoo in May 2012. Since then, according to Rick Taylor, executive director of the commission, the zoo has undergone significant improvements to existing exhibits, and added several animals and attractions within the zoo grounds.

The commission also is working hard to get the zoo self-sustainable by expanding offerings and special events, and increasing attendance. So far, the subsidy paid by the city to keep the zoo operating has decreased from $800,000 to $450,000, Taylor said.

Taylor said the ultimate goal is for the zoo to attain Association of Zoos and Aquariums accreditation. This would enable them to raise their own animals to sell to other zoos and expand what animals they display, Taylor said.

"It's very unique for a city Hattiesburg's size to have an asset like the zoo and we want to grow it and make it sustainable for the future," Taylor said.

Of course, there are some people who are opposed to zoos and to keeping wild animals in captivity, but whatever your views, you have to admit that the Hattiesburg Zoo is looking better than ever, and that the zookeepers are doing all they can to make the zoo a safe, pleasant environment for the animals in their care, as well as their human admirers.

Whether it's your first visit or it's been awhile, this weekend's birthday bash is a great chance to see what the Hattiesburg Zoo has to offer.